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Monday, June 30, 2014

Born of Persuasion

Born of Persuasion
Jessica Dotta

My Review


Born of Persuasion, by Jessica Dotta, is the story of a young woman who lost everything. Julia puts all her hopes for the future on Edward, who secretly proposed to her many years before. Yet when her hopes are dashed early on, she hires Lady Foxmore, a woman with dreadful rumors surrounding her name, to find her a rich, titled husband. Who will Lady Foxmore find? Will Edward yet come through for her?

Born of Persuasion is reminiscent of Pride Prejudice, with its time period, myriad of personalities, and society. Yet, this book is certainly an original.
I absolutely loved Born of Persuasion! There were so many plot twists, I could never predict the entirety of what would happen next. The sweet little story I thought it was at the beginning turned into a plot of intrigue and chicanery, but I loved it. 

Born of Persuasion comes from a Christian publishing company and has many Christian themes in it, but it is told from the point of view of an atheist who was shunned by her town and vicar because of her beliefs. I appreciated the new perspective it gave, especially since it came from a Christian author.
One thing that irritated me a little is that the main character, Julia, is a bit naïve and foolish. She made many poor decisions, putting her in compromising situations resulting in scandalous rumors and bad reputations even if she had done nothing wrong within the situations. Hopefully, though, Julia will become wiser in the following novels.

Overall, though, it was a masterfully written book and I can’t wait to begin the second.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Entertaining Angels

I haven't posted on here in an age. I hope you all will forgive me. I was busy, but I may begin posting somewhat regularly now.

I'm afraid I couldn't find a better photo.

My Review

Entertaining Angels, by Emerald Barnes, is the inspiring story of a young woman who overcomes her insecurity. Madison begins the story as an overweight, depressed teenager, but her best friend Chase and the hot new boy at school, Zack, help her fight her insecurity with encouraging words and prayers. Ultimately, God’s truth about His creations’ beauty wins. Yet, the story twists and turns—which boy will she choose, what will the horrible Ashley do next, and what does the title have to do with the story?
I loved the story. It was sweet, a little predictable, but I have read few books that were not predictable in some way. The story was more made to encourage the readers than to be original. I was glad that Jesus Christ was the one who gave Madison self-worth, not herself, her friends, or her popularity (or rather, lack of popularity).
One thing I would comment on is that Christianity does not appear to be clearly defined in this book. From the experience Madison had in the church, one might assume that having a special feeling and hearing encouraging words in your head during the worship service automatically makes you a Christian. That is not in the Bible I have read and memorized. It says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved (Acts 16:31)”… “that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures (1Cor 15:3-4).” I just thought I should comment on that. I hope no one is offended.
Aside from that, I think it is a lovely book and I hope some young women out there will be encouraged by it.